Sangchris Lake State Park Campground

Part of Illinois' state park system, Sangchris Lake State Park Campground sits along the shores of a 2,164-acre lake near Rochester. The park operates two distinct camping areas: Hickory Point directly on the lake and Deer Run nestled in the woods about a mile inland.

Deer Run attracts campers seeking a more wooded experience away from the water. Sites here feature electrical hookups and clear, level spots suitable for both RVs and tents. G C. notes the campground is "well kept" with "clear level spots," though mentions that "water is in the center of the loop so not very convenient." The bathroom facilities sit at the front of each loop, requiring a walk for those staying in back sites.

Fishing draws many weekend visitors to the lake, with several reviewers noting the campground fills up with anglers during peak times. The lake itself prohibits swimming, but provides ample opportunities for shoreline fishing and wildlife observation. Campers frequently spot deer throughout both camping areas. Walking trails connect various parts of the park, though some reviewers report maintenance issues with bridges and trail conditions.

The campground maintains basic restroom facilities and shower houses, though experiences vary with cleanliness depending on timing. Showers operate on push-button timers requiring frequent activation. Camp hosts stay on-site during peak seasons and receive consistent praise for helpfulness. Primitive walk-in sites offer a quieter alternative for tent campers wanting more separation from RV areas.

For additional camping choices in the region, see campgrounds just outside Rochester. The park works well for anglers, RV travelers seeking hookups, and families wanting a straightforward state park camping experience with lake access.

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Location

Public Campground

Sangchris Lake State Park Campground is located in Illinois

Detail location of campground

Directions

Traveling from the south, Northbound I 55 North to Exit 82 (Route 104). Route 104 east 6.1 miles through Pawnee and turn left, north, at Sangchris Lake sign. Travel 4.5 miles to a 4-way stop, New City. Turn right at Sangchris Lake sign and travel 3 more miles. Traveling from the north, southbound I 55 South to exit 96A (Route 29). Route 29 to Rochester, IL. Turn right at the 4th stoplight, Cardinal Hill Road, at the Sangchris Lake sign. Travel south 5.5 miles to a 4-way stop, New City. Turn left at park sign and travel 3 more miles.

Address

9898 Cascade Rd
Rochester, IL 62563

Coordinates

39.65525542 N
89.48799118 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Cabins
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • Pull-Through Sites
  • 50 Amp Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

Drive Time


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Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

11 Reviews

Campers consistently appreciated the clean, spacious sites and helpful hosts in a quiet lakeside setting. Restroom cleanliness varied between visits, and family activities beyond the playground were limited.

Reviewed Jun. 11, 2022

Pretty views, gross bathrooms

This park is pretty quiet, the lake itself looked nasty - no swimming allowed. Primitive sites were walk in. Other sites had electric. There were some cabins available. The bathrooms were not cleaned the whole time I was there, and they were disgusting. Showers required a push button activation every 10-15 seconds, but after About the 10th time I did get a little hot water.

Sitedon’t remeber
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Sangchris Lake State Park Campground by Carol , June 11, 2022
  • Review photo of Sangchris Lake State Park Campground by Carol , June 11, 2022
  • Review photo of Sangchris Lake State Park Campground by Carol , June 11, 2022
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jul. 7, 2021

Nice Campground

Spent a tent night here at the Deer Run portion of the camp.  It's a nice, well kept campground with clear level spots.  Bathrooms are basic and in the front of the camp loops so you have a walk if you stay in the back like I did.  Also, water is in the center of the loop so not very convenient.  Each space did have power and the price was reasonable.  I'd recommend staying near the front or in a trailer.

SiteDeer Run, B Loopo
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Mar. 26, 2021

Loved camping here

I camped here in a tent before we had an rv. The primitive sites were perfectly quiet and away from others. Toilet was close and so was parking. I kind of miss tent camping!!!

Reviewed Jul. 14, 2020

Was a nice stay

Have camped here a few times and have walked the trails for years. I camped at the primitive sites my first time. The sites were clean and fairly well maintained for primitive. Picnic table and fire pit were in good shape. Plenty of shade! Camp host were very nice and helpful. Non flushable restrooms were clean and stocked. It stormed pretty bad the second night there. Woke up to find my tent wasnt so waterproof. But made most of it that morning because I was also leaving that day. On my second most recent trip we stayed in the loop on an electrical site. Once again the sites were clean and the fireplace was clean and ready. Camp host were once again very helpful and polite. The kids had a great time even though due to covid-19 the playground was closed. The only reason I am giving 4 stars is the fact that the trails and bridges were in horrible condition. It was heartbreaking to see them in this condition as I've walked them since a child.

  • Review photo of Sangchris Lake State Park Campground by Jamie C., July 14, 2020
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Reviewed Jun. 1, 2019

Great local place

Hometown, go to place! 2 campgrounds, (Hickory Point on the lake) (deerrun in the woods). Both great at different times of the year depending on wind and temperatures.

  • Review photo of Sangchris Lake State Park Campground by Lucas T., June 1, 2019
  • Review photo of Sangchris Lake State Park Campground by Lucas T., June 1, 2019
Reviewed Oct. 31, 2018

Basic, friendly hosts, clean, lots of RV's

We camped midweek in October. The hosts were very friendly and accommodating. The showers and bathrooms were clean. It was cold! We were in a camper van. We should have brought firewood, as firewood was only available at an exorbitant price for very few pieces. We were told that the campgrounds filled up on the weekends with fishermen.

Month of VisitOctober
Reviewed Aug. 15, 2018

Fish and Relax

This is a great little place to go fishing and just spend some time relaxing. Deer Run is mostly trailers and RVs, but can easily accommodate tent campers, and is less crowded than Hickory Point. The campground hosts are very friendly and helpful. The lake and surrounding area is beautiful!

Reviewed Aug. 8, 2018

Great Fishing Lake

Not a lot to do with littles though. It does have a great play area but nothing else for kids. Good shower houses. Surrounded by nothing but trees and stars.

Frequently Asked Questions

What recreational activities can visitors enjoy at Sangchris Lake State Park?

Sangchris Lake State Park offers a variety of recreational activities centered around its beautiful lake setting. Fishing is the primary draw, with many visitors coming specifically to enjoy time on the water. The park features hiking trails that wind through the surrounding woods, perfect for nature observation and wildlife spotting. A playground provides entertainment for children. While swimming is not permitted in the lake, visitors can enjoy stargazing, particularly from the less crowded areas. The tranquil environment makes it an excellent destination for relaxation and unwinding in nature.

Are there cabins available at Sangchris Lake State Park?

Yes, Sangchris Lake State Park offers cabins for visitors who prefer more sheltered accommodations. The cabins are equipped with air conditioning, though note that the AC typically only cools the front room effectively. While offering a comfortable alternative to tent camping, be aware that some visitors have reported maintenance issues including graffiti. For exact cabin availability, amenities, and current rental rates, contact the park office directly before planning your trip.

When is the best time to visit Sangchris Lake State Park for camping?

The optimal time to visit Sangchris Lake State Park depends on your camping preferences. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. Summer provides warm weather perfect for fishing and exploring, though midweek visits are recommended to avoid crowds. October camping can be beautiful but prepare for cold nights. The park offers different experiences seasonally: Hickory Point campground (on the lake) works well when temperatures are moderate, while Deer Run (in the woods) provides better protection from wind and summer heat. Consider these seasonal differences when planning your visit.

What camping facilities are available at Hickory Point Campground in Sangchris Lake State Park?

Hickory Point Campground is situated right on the lake at Sangchris Lake State Park. The campground features electric and water hookups at each site, making it ideal for both RVs and trailers. Sites offer picnic tables and fire pits in good condition. Hickory Point tends to be more popular and can get crowded compared to the park's other camping area (Deer Run). The campground includes clean shower houses and restroom facilities, plus a playground for children. Sites are generally spacious with easy maneuverability for larger camping vehicles.